The .243 does not have much kick to it--though the weight of the rifle can be a factor. My daughter was shooting one when she was 10. I expect .223 ammo would be less expensive than .22-250. Don't overlook the Savages for out of the box accuracy. If your not opposed to a single shot, the NEF Handirfles are nice youth rifles that are very accurate and you can get barrels in several rifle calibers, as well as shotgun and muzzleloader for the same action. Single shots don't always seem as attractive, but are a good choice for someone developing shooting skills and with practice one can get a second shot off with a single shot break action in no time. My dad could always put two ducks down with a break action, single shot, shotgun, and occasionally three.